Carnation

(Dianthus caryophyllus)

Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Dianthus caryophyllus, commonly known as the carnation or clove pink, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in areas with limestone-rich soils. It has been extensively cultivated for over 2,000 years, valued for its beautiful and sweetly scented flowers. Carnations grow up to 80 cm (31+1⁄2 in) tall and produce flowers singly or up to five together in a cyme. The original natural flower color is bright pinkish-purple, but breeding has resulted in a wide range of colors including red, white, yellow, blue, green, and bi-colored varieties. The fragrant flowers exhibit radial symmetry and are hermaphroditic.

Carnations are appreciated for their long-lasting flowers and are commonly used in floral arrangements, boutonnieres, and corsages. They are also popular in border plantings and as cut flowers due to their variety of colors and pleasant fragrance. Carnations require well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil, and thrive in full sun. They are relatively easy to maintain, but can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and root rot if not properly cared for. Popular cultivars include ’Gina Porto’, ’Helen’, ’Laced Romeo’, and ’Red Rocket’, each offering unique flower forms and colors. In addition to ornamental uses, carnations have historical medicinal uses for treating conditions like upset stomach and fever, and their fragrance has been used in food and drink preparations.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.8-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, Red, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in areas with limestone-rich soils

Other Names

Common Names: Clove Pink , Divine-Flower , Gilly-Flower , Border Carnation , Land-Nelke , Garten-Nelke , Nelke , Garten-N. , Clavel , Oeillet

Scientific Names: Dianthus caryophyllus , Dianthus arenarius , Dianthus longicaulis , Dianthus corsicus , Dianthus miniatus , Dianthus multinervis , Dianthus arbuscula , Dianthus arrectus , Dianthus coronarius , Dianthus moschatus

GBIF Accepted Name: Dianthus caryophyllus L.